We pride ourselves on offering a warm welcome to all visitors of this magnificent building whether your interest is religious, historical, architectural or simply to explore and experience this wonderful place.

The City of Ely is situated in the county of Cambridgeshire, England and was an island until the draining of the Fens in the seventeenth century.

The Cathedral dominates the low-lying countryside in which it is set and is a well-loved landmark for many miles around.

The story of Ely Cathedral began in Saxon Times with the life of its founder, St. Etheldreda.

The Octagon
Although not the tallest of Ely’s towers, the Octagon crowned by its Lantern Tower in wood, lead and glass is rightly considered the jewel in the Cathedral crown. Built in the 1320s in the wake of the collapse of the Norman tower, it is a masterpiece of medieval engineering and a continuing delight to the eye.

Guided tours of the Octagon are offered daily subject to guide availability.

Guided tours of the Cathedral are offered by trained and knowledgeable guides throughout the year at no extra charge.

Evening tours of the Octagon or the West Tower and or the Cathedral can be arranged.

A national collection of stained glass, religious and secular, from 1200 to the present Day.
This unique museum offers an insight into the history and techniques of stained glass. For at least thirteen hundred years the art has been practised in Britain. You will learn the secrets of this ancient craft and glimpse its role in the unfolding story of British history.

When visiting the Cathedral why not drop in for a cup of tea or coffee at the Refectory or for something more substantial at The Almonry?

The Cathedral Shop located in the Cathedral at the West End of the Nave (you are welcome to come into the Cathedral shop without paying the Cathedral admission charge) offers a wide range of guides, souvenirs, gifts, classical CD’s and DVD’s, religious and local books.

For more information elycathedral.org